One of the biggest misconceptions about dog training is that every session should go perfectly. In reality, dog training rarely follows a straight line , and that’s something we regularly explain to owners at Help with Hounds . Just like people, every dog is an individual. What works brilliantly for one dog might not work at all for another. This is why effective dog training isn’t about forcing a single method or rigid routine. Instead, it’s about observing the dog in front

Teaching your dog a reliable “leave it”  cue can be a lifesaving skill. Whether it’s food dropped on the pavement, rubbish on a walk, or something potentially dangerous, a strong leave-it behaviour helps keep your dog safe. However, one of the most common mistakes I see in training sessions at Help with Hounds  is how the reward is used during the exercise. Many owners ask their dog to “leave it”… and then allow the dog to have the item they were told to ignore as the reward.

One of the biggest breakthroughs in dog training often comes down to something very simple: discovering what truly motivates your dog. At Help with Hounds , we regularly explain to owners that understanding your dog’s favourite reward can completely transform your training sessions. The right reward helps your dog stay focused, engaged, and excited to learn — which means you’ll see faster and more consistent progress. Just like people, every dog has their own preferences. Som

When most people think about puppy training, they picture commands like sit, stay, or recall. But one of the most valuable life skills you can teach your puppy is much simpler: learning how to calmly settle on a bed or place mat. At Help with Hounds , we encourage puppy owners to build this skill early. Teaching your puppy to relax on their own mat gives them a clear place where calm behaviour is rewarded and reinforced. The benefits extend far beyond your living room. A pupp

At Help with Hounds , we often remind dog owners that a successful walk isn’t always about distance or constant movement. In fact, one of the most beneficial things you can do for your dog during a walk is simply to sit down and pause together . Many people believe a good walk means keeping their dog moving the entire time. But dogs experience the world very differently from us. They process their surroundings through sight, sound, and especially smell. Giving them time to qu

Bringing home a rescue dog is exciting. You’ve opened your home — and your heart — to a dog who truly needs it. But here’s the truth most people don’t talk about: Your new rescue dog does not  need a big welcome tour. As a dog behaviourist, I see the same well-meaning mistake over and over again. Loving families move too fast — and unintentionally overwhelm the very dog they’re trying to help. If you’ve recently adopted a rescue dog, this guide will help you set them up for r

From a North Essex Dog Behaviourist Dog training sessions are not always easy. They don’t always go to plan. And honestly? That’s completely normal. If you’ve ever walked away from a training session feeling frustrated, disappointed, or worried that your dog “just isn’t getting it,” you’re not alone. As a professional dog behaviourist in North Essex , I see this every day — and it’s one of the most important things for dog owners to understand. Every Dog Is an Individual Just

Christmas is meant to be a joyful time, but for many dogs it’s one of the most stressful periods of the year. As a dog behaviourist, I see the same pattern every December: dogs labelled as “naughty”, “grumpy”, or “anxious”  when in reality they are overstimulated, overwhelmed, and simply not being listened to. Busy houses, broken routines, visitors, children, noise, and food everywhere can push even the most tolerant dog past their coping threshold. Understanding canine behav

Dogs deserve comfort whether they’re curled up on your sofa or joining you on adventures—and that’s exactly what the new Nestbedz travel...

For many adults, a fear of dogs is not just an inconvenience – it can be deeply distressing, limiting daily life, and sometimes even...

Meet Sirius – my latest client to begin their 1-2-1 behaviour modification journey  with me. At 60kg, Sirius is a powerful Cane Corso,...

Taking your dog to the beach can be a wonderful experience for both you and your canine friend. The sand, sun, and surf offer plenty of...

As summer temperatures rise, keeping your furry friend cool and safe becomes a top priority. Dogs can overheat quickly, especially in...

Dog pub — also known as a dog-friendly pub — are on the rise, and for good reason. More dog owners are looking for places where their...

Why Dog Harnesses Are Better Than Collars: Benefits Every Pet Parent Should Know When it comes to walking your dog, choosing the right...

Here is a link to a nice blog about travel insurance and pets. Get ready for your holidays abroad with your dog. A Guide To Travel...

Plants That Are Poisonous to Dogs: What Every Pet Owner Should Know As we some into spring, it is worth considering what is on your...

Why Rescue Dogs Are Awesome: 5 Reasons to Adopt Your New Best Friend Adopting a dog is one of the most rewarding decisions a person can...

Why Positive Reinforcement in Dog Training Gets the Best Results When it comes to training your dog, the approach you take can make all...

Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting adventure that comes with challenges, especially in training. One of the most...